Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, is set to expand its presence in Asia with a bumper set of upcoming seasons. From February 2025 to April 2027, four ships will offer diverse itineraries across the continent, including Norwegian Jade’s debut Asia season from October 2026 to April 2027, and Norwegian Spirit’s year-long collection of Asia Pacific sailings throughout 2025. Guests can choose from seven departure ports and over 50 immersive itineraries ranging from seven to 14-days with extended time in port in addition to numerous overnight stays in ports such as Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kobe, Osaka, Tokyo and Tokushima.
Australian interest in travelling to Asia is increasing, with Japan emerging as the fastest-growing destination in 20241 and six of Skyscanner’s trending destinations for 2025 being in Asia2. NCL is providing more opportunities to explore the diversity and culture of the region while enjoying the convenience and flexibility of a cruise holiday.
“When it comes to creating memorable holidays, NCL is providing Australian travellers with even more to see, more to do and more to enjoy with the convenience of exploring multiple destinations in one journey,” said Ben Angell, VP and Managing Director of Norwegian Cruise Line, APAC. “Guests can experience Asia’s culture, history, and natural landscapes, while enjoying a selection of dining and beverage options, health and wellness facilities, diverse accommodation options, and entertainment aboard their cruise ship, all at an unmatched value.”
Norwegian Jade Makes Her Debut in the Region
Making her Asian debut, Norwegian Jade will feature a seven-month season from October 2026 to April 2027. This will include 16 open-jaw voyages and two roundtrip Tokyo voyages, departing 29 October 2026, and 10 April 2027, respectively. Itineraries span nine to 14 days, and guests can embark from four homeports—Tokyo, Incheon, Hong Kong, and Singapore – to enjoy highlights such as cherry blossom season in Japan, late-night departures in Osaka and Kanazawa, and overnight stays in Hong Kong.
An itinerary immersing guests in the diverse landscapes and cultures of Japan and Korea on Norwegian Jade is the 9-day sailing from Seoul (Incheon), South Korea, to Tokyo, Japan, departing on 1 April, 2027. This journey invites guests to experience the unique blend of tradition and modernity across East Asia, from the historic cities of Japan to the natural beauty of Jeju Island. Guests will experience a new port every day including Seoul (Incheon) and Jeju, South Korea; Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, Kochi, Kyoto (Osaka), Nagoya, and Mount Fuji (Shimizu), Japan; and Tokyo, Japan.
Getting into the Spirit of Exploration
Throughout 2025, guest favourite Norwegian Spirit will embark on a year-long series of sailings, showcasing the cultural and natural variety of the region, from tropical islands to bustling cities.
An itinerary sailing to some of South East Asia’s most iconic locations on Norwegian Spirit is the 15-day sailing from Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan, to Singapore, departing 17 November 2025. This journey invites guests to experience the vibrant diversity of the continent, from the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the breathtaking scenery of Ha Long Bay.
Ports visited on this sailing include Taipei (Keelung) and Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Hong Kong, China; Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam; Singapore. Key highlights include the idyllic port of Sihanoukville, Cambodia; and two popular ports in Thailand, Ko Samui and an overnight stay in Bangkok to explore after dark.
Continuing the Asian Adventure with Norwegian Sun
Following her debut visit to Asia in March 2025, Norwegian Sun will return for a six-month season between October 2025 and March 2026, with a choice of six departure ports and many opportunities to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
An immersive itinerary offered on Norwegian Sun is the 11-day sailing from Tokyo, Japan, to Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan, departing 14 November 2025. This journey invites guests to explore historic sites, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant cities across South Korea and Japan.
There are ten ports visited on this sailing including Seoul (Incheon) and Jeju, South Korea; Naha (Okinawa), Hiroshima, Kochi, Kyoto (Kobe), Kyoto (Osaka), Nagoya, Mount Fuji (Shimizu), and Tokyo, Japan.
Lighting up the Sky with Asia’s Hidden Gems
For this seeking a last-minute Asian escape, Norwegian Sky will offer itineraries that delve into the region’s cultures and landscapes in March and April 2025, with voyages ranging from 11 to 14 days, providing ample time to explore each destination.
Guests sailing on NCL’s Asia itineraries can take advantage of NCL’s More At Sea™* offering exceptional value and more than $3,250 in added value providing guests with even more of what they love. This includes unlimited premium beverages with 45% more premium spirit brands such as Grey Goose Vodka, and the choice of over 100 cocktails, MORE specialty dining inclusions – up to five included on a 12-day cruise, MORE high-speed Wi-Fi, and a US$50 shore excursion credit in every port so guests can explore MORE on shore.
Click here to learn more about NCL’s Asia itineraries.
For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call NCL in Australia on 1300 255 200 or in New Zealand on 0800 969 283 or visit www.ncl.com.
